Murkowski cosponsors Senate bill to restore Afghan Temporary Protected Status

Eligible Afghan nationals living in Alaska could regain temporary protection from removal and the ability to seek work authorization under a bill introduced in the U.S. Senate. Sen. Christopher A. Coons of Delaware introduced the measure Aug. 6, 2026, as its primary sponsor, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska signed on as a cosponsor. The bill would designate Afghanistan under section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the statute that creates Temporary Protected Status. The Congressional Research Service describes that status as temporary relief from removal and work authorization for certain nationals of countries experiencing armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary circumstances. Applicants must file Form I-821, and may separately seek employment authorization with Form I-765. The bill was read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary the same day.

The Department of Homeland Security designated Afghanistan for the status on May 20, 2022. The agency announced on May 12, 2025, that the designation would end effective July 14 of that year. "This administration is returning TPS to its original temporary intent," Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in the department's announcement. DHS has said it reviewed country conditions with interagency partners and concluded that security and economic conditions had improved enough that continuing the designation was not justified.

Supporters of Afghanistan TPS legislation argue the opposite: that returning Afghans could expose them to danger, persecution, or instability. Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado, who has introduced a House version, said in a press release that his bill "provides certainty and stability for Afghans currently in the United States," adding that it is "not a permanent immigration status, but a responsible bridge for vetted allies and families who stood with America and could face persecution or death if forced back to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan."

For Afghan nationals already in the United States, including those living in Alaska, the outcome determines whether they can lawfully remain and keep working. If the protection ends, some could lose work authorization and face removal proceedings. If it is restored, families may remain more stable in Alaska communities. The fight reflects a broader national debate over temporary humanitarian protection and executive discretion. Congress and DHS have alternated between extending, terminating, and trying to restore protections for nationals of conflict-affected countries.

Alaska News previously covered guidance from Alaska's Office of Citizenship Assistance, which told holders of the status in its July newsletter to check the expiration date on their work permit cards, because federal rule changes have shortened or eliminated many automatic extensions.